Guwahati, 8th February: During the fourth day of the Budget Session of the Assam Legislative Assembly, Congress leader Debabrata Saikia directed questions to the state forest minister Chandramohan Patowary regarding the status and protection measures of existing national parks, protest forests, and wildlife reserves.
In response, Minister Patowary revealed that Assam currently boasts 7 national parks, 17 sanctuaries, and 318 reserved forests. Additionally, he disclosed that 42,601 hectares of land have been added to the wildlife reserves since 2016, without any reduction in the total land area.
Addressing concerns about deforestation or syndicate activities in protected areas, Minister Patowary assured that no deforestation has been reported in Assam’s national parks, sanctuaries, and protected forests. He highlighted the government’s adherence to the Supreme Court’s directives for safeguarding Kaziranga National Park and other reserved forests.
Furthermore, Minister Patowary cited the formation of a Forest Protection Force under the Sivasagar Forest Division, as per the order of the Hon’ble Gauhati High Court. Joint patrolling arrangements with the Police Administration have been established in sensitive areas to combat illegal activities. Additionally, a notice of Section 144 was issued by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Nazira Sub-Division to halt illegal stone quarry syndicates.
The government’s proactive measures underscore its commitment to preserving Assam’s rich biodiversity and natural heritage.
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